1. Is rhinoplasty ever covered by insurance?

Rhinoplasty can be covered by some insurance plans. Usually Insurance carriers cover a rhinoplasty for functional issues such as breathing difficulties related to a physical anomaly such as crooked septum or fractured nasal bones. On occasion the nasal anomaly may be congential and covered by some insurance plans as well. If your nose suffers a trauma while insured they may also cover straightening the nose. However, if it is a pre-existing condition some insurance companies may exclude it. Your insurance carrier will be able to answer your questions directly. It is worth checking in most cases if it is a purely functional issue. It becomes tricky for bump reduction or tip refinements.


2. Where are the incisions made?

Rhinoplasty incisions are made mostly inside the nose. On occasion a small incision maybe required on the outside of the nose on the columella (The support structure on the bottom of the nose between the two nostrils) or at the base of the nose to narrow the nostrils. Some surgeons may also make small incisions inside the mouth or outside the nose on the nasal bones themselves. The incisions are placed in such a way as to make them the least conspicuous.


3. Is it common to have black eyes after surgery?

Bruising and swelling of the lower eyelids is common after surgery. Some patients will have black eyes for a week or so and others may not. Black eyes do resolve and probably occur about half of the time. They are more common when the base of the nose requires narrowing and in thin light skinned patients.


4. Where is rhinoplasty usually performed?

Rhinoplasty is usually performed in an outpatient setting. This is commonly done in surgeon' s office or outpatient surgical facility. The procedure usually takes two to three hours to perform. It is important to make sure that your procedure is being performed in an accredited facility.


5. Is the patient asleep during the rhinoplasty surgery?

Most patients prefer to be asleep during the rhinoplasty procedure. The most important aspect of the procedure is patient safety. In some situations it may be necessary to be asleep so that your airway can be secured and provide you with a more comfortable safer experience. This will depend upon your surgeon and anesthesiologists individual evaluation.


6. If you can t eat anything before surgery, how soon afterward can you eat?

Most people are drinking fluids before they leave the hospital or recovery center. Many patients are able to tolerate a soft bland diet 3-4 hours after surgery and most are eating normally within a day or two.


7. Will I be able to drive myself home after my rhinoplasty procedure?

You will need a driver for your procedure. Once you are given anesthesia you will not be able to operate heavy machinery and will need a responsible adult to watch you for the next 24 hours.